Andaman Coast, Thailand
Plans are based on the length of your stay in Khao Lak.
A 24-hour layover is not ideal for Khao Lak due to the transfer time from Phuket Airport (HKT). For such short stays, focus on attractions directly accessible from Phuket Island.
Detailed itineraries for a comprehensive Khao Lak experience.
A detailed plan for extensive exploration within a week.
Combine a week in Khao Lak with a week exploring other Andaman Coast destinations.
Khao Lak attracts those seeking longer stays, especially during low or shoulder season due to favorable rates.
Multi-day liveaboard dive trips to the Similan or Surin Islands are options for extensive underwater exploration.
A short trip to Khao Lak has relaxation and adventure.
Settle into your hotel. Spend the afternoon on Nang Thong Beach, enjoy the sunset. Dinner and exploration of Bang La On.
Option 1 (Nov-Apr): Full-day snorkeling/diving to Similan Islands. Option 2 (Year-Round): Phang Nga Bay tour, sea canoeing, James Bond Island.
Morning at Police Boat T813 Memorial and Tsunami Museum. Relax at your hotel. Transfer to HKT for departure.
Tailor your itinerary to specific interests like history, food, or adventure.
Prioritize visits to the Tsunami Memorial Park, Police Boat T813 Memorial, and a full-day excursion to Takua Pa Old Town and Little Amazon.
Explore Bang Niang Market and Khuk Khak Market for street food. Participate in a Thai cooking class. Seek authentic local eateries.
Maximize diving or snorkeling trips to Similan/Surin Islands. Include jungle trekking in Khao Lak-Lam Ru National Park, sea canoeing in Phang Nga Bay, and potentially white-water rafting.
Choose family-friendly resorts. Include beach time, waterfall visits, an ethical elephant sanctuary, and gentle boat trips suitable for all ages.
Prioritize spa treatments and traditional Thai massages. Participate in yoga sessions. Visit peaceful local temples like Wat Khuk Khak for contemplation.
Limited in Khao Lak itself. Focus on exploring the Sino-Portuguese architecture of Takua Pa Old Town for historical and artistic interest.
Travel Khao Lak according to your financial plan and the time of year.
Options range from backpacker to luxury experiences.
Plan your visit around specific seasonal advantages.
Plan your trip around major Thai festivals for unique cultural experiences, like Loy Krathong (typically November) or Songkran (Thai New Year, in April).
Khao Lak is a popular choice for "snowbirds" or those seeking longer stays, especially during the low or shoulder season when rates are more favorable.
Embrace the possibility of rain. Enjoy the quiet beaches, lower prices, and lush inland scenery. Focus on inland attractions, cooking classes, or resort-based relaxation.
Closed May 15 - October 15. Diving and snorkeling tours are not available.
Fuller and more impressive during the wet season (May-October).
